Gary Wendell Chandler

Gary Wendell Chandler entered the world on August 6, 1952, at Methodist Hospital in Dallas, Texas, born to Lindy Lewis and Helen (Jackie) Chandler. A devoted husband, loving father, and proud “G” to his grands. He peacefully passed away on April 21, 2026, at his home in Grand Prairie, Texas, surrounded by those who loved him dearly. He will be remembered for his bold faith, steady presence, and a deep sense of loyalty to his family.

Gary was raised in the Oak Cliff neighborhood of Dallas, where he developed a lifelong love of sports and community through athletics and scouting. He graduated from Justin F. Kimball High School in 1970 before attending Texas A&M University in College Station. During his time there, he proudly assisted his uncle, Tom Chandler, as part of the Fighting Texas Aggie Baseball program. In 1974, Gary earned his degree in Economics, carrying forward the work ethic, loyalty, and humility that would define his life.

Gary built a distinguished career in the specialty food industry, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues across the country for his integrity, dedication, and steady leadership. In 1974, he joined his father’s food brokerage company in Dallas, beginning a lifelong commitment to the family business. Through Chandler Food Sales, he devoted decades to advancing the industry he cared deeply about, forming lasting relationships and working alongside his parents, brother, son, nephews, and lifelong friends. His contributions were formally recognized in 2024, when he was inducted into the Specialty Food Association Hall of Fame—an honor reserved for those whose work has left a lasting imprint on the industry.

While his professional accomplishments were significant, Gary’s greatest pride was always his family. He married the love of his life, Karla Sue (Hejkal), on August 11, 1973, at Calvary Baptist Church in Oak Cliff, Dallas. Together, they shared 52 years of marriage that began and continued with their love for music. From their days in choir to singing worship music together, their relationship was marked by devotion, laughter, and faith. Their life together included travels around the world and a shared commitment to their faith, first at Indian Hills Baptist Church in Grand Prairie and later at 121 Community Church in Grapevine.

Gary was a devoted father to his sons, Clint and Colin, and took great joy in watching them grow into men of character. His guidance, encouragement, and steady presence shaped their lives in lasting ways. In the 1980s, he began coaching his sons in Little League baseball—a role that became one of his great passions. Even after his sons had grown, Gary continued to mentor young athletes throughout the Grand Prairie community, including through GPBBI and his team, the Gamblers. His impact on generations of players was recently honored by South Grand Prairie High School, which named its press box the Gary Chandler Press Box in recognition of his lasting contributions to the baseball community in Grand Prairie.

Gary’s greatest joy, however, came from being “G” to his four grandchildren—Rory, Rose, Elizabeth Jane, and Georgia. He cherished every moment with them, taking pride in their lives and finding joy in simply being together. His stories, his laughter, and the memories they share will remain with them always.

He will be remembered for his kindness, humility, and faithful walk with Christ. Gary never sought recognition, yet his integrity, playful spirit, and commitment to his family left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife, Karla; his sons, Clint and Colin and daughter in law Kelli; his four grandchildren; Rory, Rose, Elizabeth Jane and Georgia. As well as many extended family members and friends who will continue to honor his memory and carry forward his example.

His legacy lives on in the family he built, the lives he touched, and the enduring way he lived each day. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten. Gig ’Em.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Men of Nehemiah - A Christian Addiction Treatment Center, or to Give - 121 Community Church - Grapevine, TX